Audiences can’t help but fall head over heels for The Affections of May running until June 22 at the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse.
From the pen of Canadian playwright Norm Foster, The Affections of May is his most-produced play. With its engaging characters and twisting storyline, his look at life after marriage will warm your heart and tickle your funny bone.
“Foster’s delightful sense of humour and exceptional insight to the human condition radiates throughout this charming comedy,” says Alex Mustakas, artistic director of Drayton Entertainment. “If you’re looking for a fun evening out, The Affections of May is definitely the play for you.”
After one season of running a bed and breakfast together, Brian Henning realizes that he isn’t cut out for small-town life. He informs his wife, May, that he’s leaving her for the big city and the arms of an old flame.
Within days the town is abuzz with the News that May is single and eligible. The pursuit is on, as two outlandish bachelors compete for her undivided attention. One is a banker who promises security; the other a handyman who awakens May’s long-lost desires.
While piecing her life back together, May must decide what she wants. Will it be bachelor number one, the nerdy bank manger; bachelor number two, the brooding resident handyman; or three, her unfaithful husband? Only time will tell who will win the affections of May.
Jackie Mustakas brings comedic sensibility to the role of May, who must work through the departure of her husband and accept the reality of her new life. Mustakas endears herself to the audience by manoeuvring her character through many funny situations – from denial to acceptance, frustration to intoxication.
Leaving May penniless and alone, Rick Hughes aptly portrays Brian, May’s estranged husband, as overconfident and cruel. Audiences can’t help but root for his downfall. The two suitors are played by Paul McQuillan as the likeable but not-so-mighty, Quinn, and J. Sean Elliot who takes on the role of bank manager Hank Beavis.
At the helm of the production, director James Kall guides fast-paced dialogue with impeccable timing.
Set Designer David Antscherl has created a Victorian home that one easily imagines would make a quaint B&B. The windows give the audience different perspectives on what is happening both inside and out, and multiple entrances aid the interplay between the characters.
“The Affections of May is a love story told in a fun, intelligent and entertaining way. Exploring themes of heartbreak and rebirth, Norm Foster’s comedy shows that there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel and the promise of a better tomorrow,” says Mustakas.
Regular performance tickets are $42 for adults; $25 for youth under 20 and groups of 20 or more are $34. HST is applicable to all ticket prices.
Tickets may be purchased online 24/7 at www.st.jacobscountryplayhouse.com, in person at the box office or by calling 519-747-7788 or 1-855-DRAYTON (372-9866).
